Bluefield State University receives funding to upgrade campus safety and security
The grant, which totals $1,105,000, is Community Project Funding from the Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education.
Bluefield State University has received a Community Project Funding grant in the amount of $1,105,000 from the Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education to upgrade the safety and security of its campus. The funding was secured through the assistance of U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito and Jim Justice. The grant will allow the university to make important safety and security infrastructure upgrades like improved emergency communications, building door access, and cameras.
According to an article on Bluefield State University’s website, Dr. Darrin Martin, who serves as the university’s president, was quoted as saying, “We are deeply grateful to Senator Capito and Senator Justice for their leadership and advocacy on behalf of Bluefield State University. The safety and well-being of our campus community are foundational to student success. This investment allows us to modernize our security systems in a responsible and forward-looking way. These upgrades ensure that our infrastructure keeps pace with our momentum. We appreciate our federal delegation’s partnership in helping Bluefield State remain secure, prepared, and positioned for continued success.”
The university has undergone a period of growth recently, with its enrollment numbers continuing to climb. In 2025, it saw a 7.8% increase in overall headcount and its first-time freshman enrollment climbed 37%. These increases lead to an increased need for safety and security to ensure the extra students, staff, faculty, and community members taken care of.
Senator Capito said, “I am proud to have helped deliver funding through the Congressionally Directed Spending process to support critical campus security upgrades at Bluefield State University. As the university continues to see strong enrollment growth, more first-time freshmen, and expanded on-campus housing, it is essential that its safety infrastructure keeps pace. Supporting higher education institutions like Bluefield State strengthens southern West Virginia and helps provide greater opportunity for the next generation.”
For more information about Bluefield State University, visit the school’s website.